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You don't necessarily need an expensive gym membership to keep active. Sarah Brealey gives you nine ways to shape up that will cost you (almost) nothing.
1. Use the stairs
If you have stairs, climb a flight then go back down. Repeat, gradually building up the number that you do. When out, take the stairs instead of the lift or walk up the escalator.
2. Become a tree
Regular balance exercises are important, especially as you get older. To do a yoga ‘tree’ pose, stand up straight, lift one foot and place its sole against your other leg. To start, just touch your foot to your other ankle for a second before putting it down. As you improve, hold it for longer and move your foot higher up your leg. If you have problems balancing, hold your arms out to either side in a T-shape or hold a wall. Don't forget to breathe! This pose can also be done by holding your hands together above your head, but if you've got high blood pressure, it's best not to keep your arms above your head for too long.
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3. Find free swimming
Some local councils still let over-60s swim for free in their pools, while others give this age group a big discount. Check at your local pool or with your council.
4. Try an outdoor ‘gym’
4. Try an outdoor ‘gym’Check to see if your local park has a ‘trim trail’: an outdoor area with pieces of exercise equipment that you can use for free. Contact your local council to ask whether there’s one near you or type ‘trim trail’ and your area into your search engine.
5. Devise a routine
Play some lively music and create your own aerobic workout. You could dance, jog on the spot, do star jumps, skip or try a combination of these. Try to do ten minutes to start with and gradually increase the duration and intensity.
6. Play throw and catch
Stand outdoors with plenty of space and a ball or stick. Throw it as far as you can, then walk or run to fetch it. Repeat, changing your arm to see how far you can throw. It’s great fun with kids or grandchildren, too.
7. Improvise with tins
A good way to tone and strengthen your arms and shoulders is to use tins of soup or baked beans as weights. Hold a tin in each palm, stretch out your arms to each side and move them in circles, keeping them straight. Do ten clockwise circles, then ten anti-clockwise.
8. Follow fitness videos
Check out YouTube for free fitness videos you can follow in your own home. The first links you see may be adverts but there are plenty of free videos and by searching you can find one that suits you.
9. Offer your services
Get active by volunteering for a local organisation such as a gardening project or sports club. Or try the Conservation Volunteers Green Gym – a voluntary scheme that combines exercise with public conservation projects.Or try GoodGym, which combines exercise and running with tasks to help community organisations.
If you’re not already active, get medical advice before starting a new exercise regime.
Read our feature about winter walking
Updated October 2021
